Have you ever wondered if minors can buy non-alcoholic beer? While the answer may seem straight forward, there is actually a lot to consider.
Non-alcoholic beer has been around for many years and is becoming increasingly popular among people of all ages, including those who are not yet old enough to legally purchase alcohol.
The laws surrounding the sale of non-alcoholic beer to minors vary from state to state and even between different cities within each state.
This means that while it might be legal in one place, it could be completely prohibited in another area just a few miles away.
To make matters more complicated, some states have different regulations when it comes to purchasing or consuming non-alcoholic beverages on public property versus private property.
Let’s examine the laws and regulations that may affect your decision to buy or consume non-alcoholic beer as a minor and whether or not you can buy 0 alcohol beer.
What is non alcoholic beer?
Non-alcoholic beer is a type of beer that has been brewed to remove the majority of its alcohol content.
While it does still contain some trace amounts of alcohol, it is much lower than traditional beer and is considered safe for minors to consume. Typically, it contains 0.5%-0.0% alcohol.
In most cases, non-alcoholic beers are brewed in the same fashion as regular beers, but the alcohol is removed either through a filtration process or by adding water and heating the mixture.
Luckily the modern method of lowering the boiling point to stop fermentation doesn’t damage the flavor. So you won’t have to worry about drinking watery beer!
Is non alcoholic beer completely alcohol-free?
No, non-alcoholic beer still contains some trace amounts of alcohol. While it is much lower than regular beer, this may be enough to make a minor legally intoxicated.
However, in most cases the amount is so small that it won’t have any effects on the person consuming it.
It is important to note that even if the beer is labeled “non-alcoholic”, there may still be trace amounts of alcohol present. Most will say they are 0.5% alcohol to avoid any liability for this.
However, in recent years, we have started to see more 0.0% alcohol beers on the market.
Some drinkers report a slight feeling of a buzz, but this is typically found to be either due to the placebo effect or the added sugars in 0 alcohol beers.
Is There A Legal Drinking Age For Non-Alcoholic Beer?
Yes, in most states the legal drinking age is still 21 years old.
However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For instance, in some states it may be permissible for a minor to consume non-alcoholic beer if they are accompanied by an adult who has given them permission to do so.
It is important to check the laws in your area before making any decisions about purchasing or consuming non-alcoholic beer as a minor.
Can Minors Buy Non Alcoholic Beer?
The short answer is no, minors are not legally allowed to purchase non-alcoholic beer in most states.
However, some states may have exceptions for instances in which a minor is accompanied by an adult who has given them permission to buy the beverage. And many cash registers do no have the typical age warnings that are seen with customers purchasing alcoholic beverages.
Sometimes it comes down to the discretion of the individual working the checkout or the store policy as to whether or not minors can buy non alcoholic beer.
Can you buy non alcoholic beer under 21?
In most cases, minors are not legally allowed to purchase non-alcoholic beer. However, some states may have exceptions for instances in which a minor is accompanied by an adult who has given them permission to buy the beverage.
It is important to note that even if the beer is labeled “non-alcoholic”, there may still be trace amounts of alcohol present which is why the sales are restricted.
How old do you have to be to buy non alcoholic beer?
In the United States, the minimum age for purchasing non-alcoholic beer is 21 years old. This differs from state to state, so you should check with your local alcohol laws before making a purchase.
You may also need to provide proof of identification when buying non-alcoholic beer.
How do you drink non alcoholic beer if you are under 21?
If you want to consume non alcoholic beer but you are under 21 years of age, you should ask you parents or a 21+ year old friend to purchase the 0 alcohol beer for you.
It is technically legal to consume the drinks under age 21, just not to purchase them.
If you cannot find someone who is legally allowed to purchase non alcoholic beer for you, then you may want to look into other options such as flavored seltzers.
Can you drink non alcoholic beer if you are under 18?
Technically you aren’t supposed to. However, many non alcoholic beers market themselves towards minors.
In most states, if you parent purchases the beverage for you or gives your permission, you are allowed to drink non alcoholic beer under the age of 18 in your home.
Non-alcoholic beer laws by state
Federal Law – 0.5% ABV or lower is considered a non-alcoholic beer
The following states have varied rules:
Georgia – Any alcohol content is an alcoholic beverage, so minors cannot consume it
Kansas – Not for sale to minors, but under 3.2% ABV can be consumed with parental supervision.
Kentucky – Non alcoholic beer is anything under 1% ABV.
Idaho – Any alcohol content is an alcoholic beverage, so minors cannot consume it
New York – Any alcohol content is an alcoholic beverage, so minors cannot consume it
Vermont – Non alcoholic beer is anything under 1% ABV.
Can you drink non alcoholic beer when driving?
No, you should never drink any form of alcohol while driving. Non alcoholic beer is no exception and can be dangerous as it may still contain trace amounts of alcohol which could impair your driving skills.
It is always best to abstain from all forms of alcohol when operating a vehicle for the safety of you and others on the road.
While you might get lucky that it has 0.0% alcohol and you don’t get caught, it is unsafe to risk.
Can NA Beer Give You A Buzz?
No, non alcoholic beer is not likely to give you a “buzz” or any kind of intoxication. Non-alcoholic beers usually contain between 0.05% and 0.5% alcohol by volume (ABV) which is far below the legal limit for alcohol content in drinks.
However, some people may still experience a placebo buzz.
Conclusion
Non alcoholic beer is a great alternative for those who are looking to enjoy the taste of beer without consuming alcohol. However, it is important to understand the legal guidelines for purchasing and consuming non-alcoholic beer in each state.
Minors are typically not allowed to purchase non-alcoholic beer and minors should never drink any form of alcohol while driving.
But non alcoholic wine is great for people of legal drinking age who just don’t want the alcohol.